Epsom Salts (magnesium sulphate) Extra Pure
SHORT DESCRIPTION
Epsom Salts (Magnesium Sulphate) Extra Pure is a high-purity, crystalline compound widely used in laboratory settings as a source of magnesium ions and as a drying or stabilizing agent in various chemical reactions. It is particularly valuable in analytical chemistry, buffer preparation, and qualitative tests involving sulfate or magnesium detection. In biological and biochemical research, it is often used to prepare nutrient solutions and culture media. The extra pure grade ensures minimal contaminants, making it suitable for precision applications and sensitive experiments. It should be stored in a cool, dry place to maintain its crystalline structure and prevent moisture absorption.
USES
Primary Laboratory Uses:
- Reagent in analytical chemistry:
Used in tests for calcium, barium, and strontium by forming insoluble sulphates. - Component in buffer solutions and culture media:
Supplies magnesium ions essential for enzymatic and microbial growth processes. - Desiccant in drying operations (anhydrous form):
Helps remove moisture from organic solvents in lab settings. - Standard in titration and gravimetric analysis:
Serves as a stable magnesium source for quantitative chemical analysis.
Secondary Laboratory Uses:
- Supportive salt in tissue and cell experiments:
Magnesium is a cofactor in many cellular reactions and stabilizes membranes. - Magnesium supplement in plant nutrient studies (hydroponics):
Used in controlled plant growth experiments to study nutrient uptake. - Reference material in solubility and crystallization studies:
Ideal for demonstrations of hydrated salt properties and crystal formation. - Cooling bath ingredient (mixed with water and ice):
Provides better temperature control than plain ice for some reactions.
KEY ATTRIBUTES
1. Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name: Magnesium Sulphate Heptahydrate
- Common Name: Epsom Salt
- Chemical Formula: MgSO₄·7H₂O
- CAS Number: 10034-99-8
- Grade: Extra Pure (Laboratory Grade)
- Appearance: Colorless or white crystalline solid
2. Physical & Chemical Properties
- Molecular Weight: 246.47 g/mol
- Solubility: Soluble in water, slightly soluble in glycerol
- Melting Point: Decomposes at 112°C (loss of water)
- pH (5% solution): ~5.5–7.0
- Odor: Odorless
- Stability: Stable under normal storage conditions
3. Safety & Hazard Attributes
- GHS Classification: Not hazardous under GHS
- Hazard Statements:
- May cause mild eye irritation
- Excessive ingestion may cause laxative effects
- PPE Requirements:
- Gloves
- Safety goggles
- Lab coat
- First Aid Measures:
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air if irritation occurs
- Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water
- Eye Contact: Rinse thoroughly with water
- Ingestion: Non-toxic in small amounts; seek medical help if large quantities are ingested
4. Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions:
- Store in a cool, dry place
- Keep tightly sealed
- Protect from moisture and heat
- Handling Notes:
- Avoid creating dust
- Use proper scooping tools and avoid contact with eyes
5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- EC Number: 231-298-2
- UN Number: Not regulated
- Hazard Class: Non-hazardous
- FDA/Pharmacopoeia Status: May be used in food/pharma grade when specified (not this lab grade)
6. Laboratory Applications
- Primary Uses:
- As a drying agent in organic synthesis
- In preparing buffer solutions and growth media
- In gravimetric analysis of magnesium
- Other Uses:
- For biological magnesium supplementation studies
- Calibration and maintenance of salt baths
- Chemistry demonstrations (e.g., crystallization, solubility studies)
SAFETY MEASURES
SAFETY & HANDLING
- PPE: Lab coat, gloves, and eye protection
- Storage:
- Store in a cool, dry place
- Keep container tightly closed to prevent moisture uptake
- Stability: Stable under normal lab conditions
FIRST AID MEASURES
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air if dust is inhaled
- Skin Contact: Wash with water; non-irritating in most cases
- Eye Contact: Rinse with water for several minutes
- Ingestion: Low toxicity, but not for consumption unless food/pharma grade